Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Shawnee State University campus a safe place?

Yes.  Shawnee State University strives to keep the campus a safe environment for its students and employees.  The Department of Public Safety maintains a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week security presence across the campus.  Security Officers monitor campus activity and perform mobile and foot patrols.  The University also maintains a close working relationship with the Portsmouth Police Department, which is located one block west of the campus.

What type of crimes have been reported on campus?

Crime statistics for the past 3 years are reported in the Campus Safety and Security Report, published annually in compliance with the Campus Security Act, 20 USC § 1092 (f).  The statistics represented in the report are alleged criminal offenses reported to campus security authorities or local police agencies. Therefore, the data collected do not necessarily reflect prosecutions or convictions for crime.

What if I have a late class and I feel apprehensive about walking alone to my car or residence hall?

The Department of Public Safety would be happy to escort you to your vehicle or residence hall.  Just call 740-351-3243 or enter 3243 from any campus phone.  A Uniformed Security Officer with proper SSU ID, will meet you and walk with you to your car or residence hall.

Where do I park while attending classes, special events, work or visit the campus?

Parking lots are located across the university campus.  View the Campus Map to identify where you are permitted to park.  Be sure to read any signs erected in the parking lots for more detailed instruction.  Portsmouth City Municipal Parking Lots are also located close by at 4th & Gay Streets and just west of the Ohio River Bridge.  If you have any questions, call the Department of Public Safety at 740-351-3243.

Do I have to apply for a Parking Permit for my vehicle?

Yes.  All students, faculty/staff, contractors and special visitors are required to register their vehicles while on campus property.  Parking permits must be clearly visible through the windshield or displayed on the vehicle's rearview mirror.  Parking permits DO NOT guarantee a parking space on campus.

How do I apply for a parking permit and how much does it cost?

Parking permits are FREE and are issued by the Department of Public Safety (Security), located at the rear of the Advanced Technology Center building.   An application form with instructions can be downloaded from the Parking Regulations web page, see "Apply for a Vehicle Parking Permit".  Forms are also available at the Department.  Bring your SSU picture ID and completed form to the Department of Public Safety (Security).  A parking permit tag can be issued for each vehicle you plan to operate on university property.

Why did I get a Parking Violation Ticket and do I really have to pay a fine?

Parking Violation Tickets are issued for any vehicle found in violation of the University Parking Policy.  The vehicle parking policy is explained in more detail on the Parking Regulations web page.  Parking in fire lanes, loading zones, outside marked parking spaces, on grass or in handicap areas without a handicap tag is strictly enforced.

The tickets are university issued tickets and are payable to the Bursar's Office.  Unpaid tickets are considered a debt to the University and subject to appropriate collection action.  Failure to pay a fine will result in a hold being placed against your SSU ID, preventing registration for classes and withholding of certification for graduation until the fine is paid.

I did not think I was violating any parking rules.  How can I file a request to appeal my ticket?

The university has a formal appeal process for anyone wanting to contest a parking citation.  See "How to Appeal a Parking Violation" on the Parking Regulations web page.  Your appeal is reviewed by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of university representatives, including faculty, staff and a student.  The committee called Parking Appeals Review Committee (PARC) will review the appeal and make the final judgment.